The Department of Education of the Basque Government, as announced this week, has sent a new protocol to schools on Friday. It flexibilizes some of the anti-COVID-19 measures that were in effect from Monday.

Compulsory Secondary Education students over 12 years of age will undergo the biggest changes: They may stay outdoors without a face mask, even if metro and a half distances are respected, even when they do, eat or drink "intense physical activity". Inside the classroom there will be no changes, they will have to keep using the mask.

On the contrary, elementary school students will have to continue using the mask obligatorily and at all times, both inside and outside school, as well as in physical activities and in the playground. However, for those over the age of six, a change comes into effect: in the open air, all students of the same level are allowed to meet and maintain relationships. In other words, groups of 'bubbles' can be mixed in the open air.

Since the beginning of the course, several parents have been concerned about the consequences that the Umeak ere bai platform may have, the use of the mask and the social distance in children. They consider it "discriminatory" not to have to wear a face mask in the open air and, however, to have to carry students over six years of age at all times, even in the playground or to carry out physical activity.

In Ipar Euskal Herria, however, from this Monday (October 4) children do not need a mask in primary school.